Utility Locate Service: Public vs Private Utilities
Utility Locate Service: Public vs Private Utilities
Subsurface work is an important step in any project, but before digging or excavation occurs, the utilities underground should be marked to avoid any damage.
The first step that people take to have public utilities marked is calling 811. They believe that all utilities are marked by calling a public utility locator or 811. But, the fact is that 811 only marks public utility lines and they don’t check the private utilities. If you don’t hire a utility locate service and mark them, you might commit costly and dangerous mistakes.
Public Utility Lines:
When particular utility companies manage the infrastructure, it’s known as public utility lines. The lines are installed, and they run along public structures, which include streets and sidewalks. The primary responsibility of public utility companies is the proper functioning of the lines.
Common public utility lines are water mains, sewer lines, power, gas lines, and telecommunication lines. As soon as you contact 811, the public utility companies receive the notification, and technicians mark the public utility locations.
Utilities that are installed after a meter base or on private property are referred to as private utilities and are not marked by public locating technicians.
Private Utility Lines:
It’s the responsibility of the property owner to maintain the private utilities. The interesting fact is that private utilities are the extension of public utilities. If they get damaged, the property might be in danger.
Some examples of private utility lines are irrigation systems, septic systems, well water, water lines after the water meter, propane lines, landscape lighting, and electrical and communications that run to outbuildings, sheds, shops, garages, etc. 811 technicians don’t mark these utilities, so working with a private utility locate company becomes important before digging or excavation.
Steps to Locate Public and Private Utility Lines (2-Steps)
For Public Utilities- Call 811
Before subsurface work is performed, it’s important that public utilities are marked. So, begin your digging project by calling 811. This service is free, so you shouldn’t worry about the cost. Technicians use different color flags and paints to define the utility types in the work area.
For Private Utilities- Hire a Private Utility Locate Company
If you want a comprehensive result with coverage, hire a professional utility inspection service. Technicians from the company use advanced technology and modern techniques to detect and mark the utilities. The most common methods used are Electromagnetic Locating (EM locates) and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR). These are non-invasive methods that help identify private utilities.
Partner With Us to Get a Comprehensive Utility Detection Report
If you are looking for a utility locate service in Oregon, Washington, or nearby areas, contact C-N-I Locates. We have experienced technicians in our team who use advanced technology to provide comprehensive and reliable solutions to you. Most importantly, we deliver our service without causing any damage to your property and at affordable rates.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you!!
